Rose hips are the fruits that develop from the blossoms of the wild rose (Rosa species). They contain high levels of vitamin C and are commonly used in soup, stew, tea, juice, jam, jelly, sauce, syrup, puree, and oil.

Rose hips have traditionally been used to treat and prevent respiratory infections, gallstones, and ulcers. They have also been used to treat inflammatory diseases, such as arthritis, and as a tonic for the stomach and the kidneys.

Clinical evidence supports the use of rose hip to boost antioxidant status in healthy young adults and rose hip powder (Hyben Vital®) to treat the symptoms of osteoarthritis. Also supported by clinical evidence is massage combined with aromatherapy using rose oil, together with other oils, to treat painful menstruation. Other treatments, which are supported by unclear or conflicting evidence, include skin conditions, eye disorders, immune function, and wound healing.

These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.

GRADE *

Preliminary evidence suggests that the concentrated fruit extract of Rosa roxburghii has positive effects on the antioxidant status of healthy young adults. Additional research is needed before a firm conclusion can be made.

Research suggests that rose hip may decrease symptoms of osteoarthritis. Future research will provide additional useful information on the use of rose hip for this condition.

B

Preliminary evidence suggests that an herbal formula (Ophthacare®) containing rose hip may be useful in the treatment of a variety of eye disorders. Additional study of rose hip alone is needed before a conclusion can be made.

C

Limited research suggests that some compounds isolated from rose hip may have positive effects on immune system function. Additional studies with whole rose hip preparations are needed before a conclusion can be made.

C

Limited research has used rose hip oil to treat skin conditions. High-quality clinical trials are needed before a conclusion can be made.

C

Preliminary research suggests that a rose oil-containing preparation applied to the skin aids healing of surgical wounds and ulcers. Additional research is needed before a conclusion can be made.

C

* Key to grades

A: Strong scientific evidence for this useB: Good scientific evidence for this useC: Unclear scientific evidence for this useD: Fair scientific evidence for this use (it may not work)F: Strong scientific evidence against this use (it likley does not work)

Tradition / Theory
The below uses are based on tradition, scientific theories, or limited research. They often have not been thoroughly tested in humans, and safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider. There may be other proposed uses that are not listed below.

A rose hip extract has been prepared by simmering 2.5 teaspoons of cut rose hips in one cup of water for 10 minutes.

As an antioxidant, four capsules of Rosa roxburghii fruit juice concentrate (equivalent to 24 milliliters of unconcentrated fruit juice) has been taken by mouth at each meal for 21 days.

For osteoarthritis, five grams of Hyben Vital® (the powder of the fruits, seeds, and husks of LiTo, a subtype of Rosa canina, standardized to contain at least 500 milligrams of vitamin C per 100 grams of Hyben Vital® powder) has been taken by mouth twice daily for three months.

For postsurgical wound healing, 26% Rosa mosqueta (Rosa aff. rubiginosa L.) oil in a solution of linoleic (41%) and linolenic (39%) acid has been applied to wounds (the frequency and duration of treatment were not stated).

Children (under 18 years old)

There is no proven safe or effective dose for rose hip in children.

Safety
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not strictly regulate herbs and supplements. There is no guarantee of strength, purity or safety of products, and effects may vary. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy. Consult a healthcare provider immediately if you experience side effects.

Allergies

Avoid with known allergy or hypersensitivity to rose hip, Rosa spp., rose hip dust, rose pollen, their constituents, or members of the Rosaceae family.

Allergic symptoms, anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction), asthma symptoms, conjunctivitis (pinkeye), hypersensitivity to rose pollen, respiratory symptoms, rhinitis (hay fever), rhinoconjunctivitis (rhinitis together with conjunctivitis), skin reactions, and wheezing have been reported in people, including those who live or have lived in rose-cultivating regions or in those who work in rose cultivation or the manufacturing of rose products.

Side Effects and Warnings

Rose hip preparations appear to be well tolerated when taken in recommended doses for up to three months. It has been proposed that some side effects are related to the amount of vitamin C present in rose hips.

Rose hip may affect bleeding. Caution is advised in people with bleeding disorders or those taking drugs, herbs, or supplements that may increase the risk of bleeding. Dosing adjustments may be necessary.

Interactions have been reported between vitamin C and drugs. It is not clear how much vitamin C remains in dried and stored rose hips, nor whether the remaining vitamin C would cause similar interactions.

Rose hip may affect the risk of bleeding when taken with drugs that increase the risk of bleeding. Some examples include aspirin, anticoagulants (blood thinners) such as warfarin (Coumadin®) or heparin, antiplatelet drugs such as clopidogrel (Plavix®), and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen (Motrin®, Advil®) or naproxen (Naprosyn®, Aleve®).

Rose hip may affect the risk of bleeding when taken with herbs and supplements that are believed to increase the risk of bleeding. Multiple cases of bleeding have been reported with the use of Ginkgo biloba, and fewer cases with garlic and saw palmetto. Numerous other agents may theoretically increase the risk of bleeding, although this has not been proven in most cases.

The information in this monograph is intended for informational purposes only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. Information is based on review of scientific research data, historical practice patterns, and clinical experience. This information should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies, diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions.